A record autonomous speed set by the Maserati MC20

A Maserati driven solely by Artificial Intelligence has pushed the boundaries of autonomous driving by reaching 318 km/h.

The Indy Autonomous Challenge and the Politecnico di Milano, Italy’s largest scientific and technological university, have partnered with Maserati and the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida for an ambitious technological initiative. This achievement is part of the MOST project of the Italian National Center for Sustainable Mobility, which aims to promote eco-friendly solutions.

On the historic track of Space Florida Launch and Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, measuring 4.5 km long, the modified Maserati MC20 Coupe, designed to drive without a driver, reached a record speed of 318 km/h. This result eclipses the previous record of 310 km/h, set at the same location in April 2022 with an IAC AV-21 race car. The PoliMOVE-MSU team from the Politecnico di Milano developed advanced AI software for the beautiful Italian car that successfully maintained vehicle stability while managing acceleration and deceleration phases.

The autonomous car can also be spectacular

This achievement demonstrates significant progress in the field of high-speed autonomous driving. The data collected during these tests could be applied to production vehicles, thus enhancing the safety and performance of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The previous record of the Maserati MC20 dates back to November 2024, when it reached 285 km/h at the military base in Piacenza. This success reaffirms Italy’s technological superiority and highlights the importance of the research conducted by the Politecnico di Milano.

Once the record was broken, a Maserati MC20 Cielo convertible continued the adventure by joining the convoy of the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida. This car, which had already traveled 60 km autonomously during the 2023 edition in Italy, embodies the link between tradition and innovation, showcasing Italian engineering on American roads.

This partnership marks a key step in the exploration of autonomous mobility. It paves the way for major technological advancements, aiming to commercialize high-performing autonomous vehicles and improve safety in urban and commercial transport. A striking demonstration of the potential of autonomy to shape the future of global mobility.

ALSO READ: Maserati negotiates a historic turn